Why Our Favorite Food Pairings Work

From steak and potatoes to peanut butter and jelly, there are some food pairings that just work—but have you ever wondered why?

In today’s blog, we will be exploring the practical reasons behind some of our favorite food duos.

Now that you know why certain foods go together, which one is your favorite? Share your Stonewood pick with us below—we’ll be happy to make it for you the next time you come in for dinner!

Meat and potatoes

Any cook or food fanatic will tell you that meat and potatoes make a naturally excellent pair—possibly due to the blending of textures you enjoy when you eat buttery boiled potatoes in a beef stew, or velvety mashed potatoes alongside your favorite cut of steak. This is a perk that can’t be overlooked, and it’s probably one of the chief reasons (in addition to the superb flavors) that we seek out this pairing so often. However, did you know that science supports this strategic pairing, too? A study in the Journal of Food Science found that rats who ate red meat with potatoes or similar carbs (as opposed to meat alone) enjoyed improved digestive health. If the same holds true for us, it’s just another reason to enjoy this classic double act!

Steak and red wine

When it comes to dinner and drinks, steak with red wine is another natural combination—and once again, science is on its side! Tannins are organic materials found in wine (transferred from the grapes and the actual barrels the wine is kept in). The sharp, dry feel of these tannins is pleasantly counteracted by the fat and flavor of the red meat, bringing out the taste of the wine and making for a more enjoyable dining experience.

Sauce and pasta

Pairing your favorite pasta with a delicious sauce is so commonplace that we hardly ever think of it as a culinary choice—it’s just the way things are! While there may not be a physical benefit to consuming sauce with your pasta, we can think of one delicious reason—sauce makes virtually every pasta taste (and even feel) better. From rich, creamy cheese sauces on your macaroni, to light garlic and butter on spaghetti, sauce adds the flavor of excitement. It also adds a smooth, velvety texture to pasta with a bite, cooked al dente.

Want to teste these duos for yourself? You can find these delicious pairings (and more!) on our Stonewood dinner menu.

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